It’s no suprise that beaches in Hawaii have consistently ranked in the top 10 of Dr. Beach’s America’s Best Beach List. In fact, for 12 of the past 18 years, a Hawaii beach has ranked #1 on the list. That’s why it’s no suprise that Hanalei Bay took the top spot for 2009.
Hanalei Bay, which ranked #2 in 2008, is not only a beautiful beach, but the nearby town and surrounding areas of Kauai make it an ideal place to visit for those seeking solitude and adventure. Teresa and family from Pacific Grove, CA enjoy renting one of our Hanalei vacation rental homes when they visit the island. “Kauai is our favorite island and we have spent many weeks of vacation here. Our favorite way to visit is to rent a home in Hanalei bay and walk to the beach every day,” says Teresa.
Part of the big appeal of Hanalei is that it’s exactly what people expect Hawaii to be. Laid back, relaxed with a friendly small town atmosphere. “The small town of Hanalei is great for families,” says Emma Ladendecker of Calabasas, CA, “your kids can ride bikes or walk to the beach and nearby shopping and restaurants without the worries I normally have back home in California.”
The location is ideal for people seeking adventure and the true beauty of Hawaii. “The perfect location. We took in the sun, surfing, shopping, etc., but best of all we enjoyed each other in the blessings that Mother Nature has bestowed upon Hanalei,” Maureen of Newport Beach wrote in a review of her Hanalei vacation.
Dr. Beach basis his selections on 50 criteria which include water quality and temperature, cleanliness, weather, sand, safety and facilities. Dr. Beach also stated that Hanalei is his personal favorite “getaway beach” in the islands.
Also making the list this year was Hamoa Beach in Hana, Maui. Dr. Beach describes this jewel as being, “rimmed by cliffs, covered by coconut palm trees and beautiful flowering vegetation.”
In a recent trip to Maui from his home town of Hyères, France, Alan Bosser said, “Hamoa was absolute gorgeous, but the area of Hana was too desolate for my tastes.” Alan and wife Nicole preferred staying in their Lahaina vacation home which is close to shopping and restaurants.
Previous Hawaii winners of Dr. Beaches coveted #1 ranking include:
- Fleming Beach Park- Maui, Hawaii
- Hanauma Bay, Oahu, Hawaii
- Kaanapali, Hawaii
- Poipu Beach Park, Hawaii
- Mauna Kea Beach, Hawaii
- Wailea Beach, Hawaii
- Kailua Beach Park, Hawaii
- Hulopoe, Hawaii
- Lanikai Beach, Hawaii
- Hapuna, Hawaii
- Kapalua Bay Beach, Hawaii
Hawaii’s beaches are one of the main reasons the islands are such a popular destination for travelers. The warm and clean waters, coupled with the lush tropical beauty, have a certain appeal that you just can’t deny.